South Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jackson Dam Buffalo Millpond
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
South Lake Dam in Kittrell, North Carolina, stands as a historic masonry structure completed in 1854 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Situated on Long Creek, the dam boasts a hydraulic height of 29 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, with a length of 150 feet. The dam holds a normal storage capacity of 139 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 170 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 12 acres for recreational activities.
Managed by a private owner, the South Lake Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory as of May 2019. With a drainage area of 1,517 square miles and a maximum discharge of 330 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and structural integrity of the South Lake Dam, which not only offers recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital component of the local watershed. As a regulated and inspected dam in North Carolina, it exemplifies the intersection of human engineering and natural resources, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management in preserving water infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1854 |
Dam Length |
150 |
River Or Stream |
Long Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
1517 |
Nid Storage |
170 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
South Lake Dam